Advance Auto Parts' stock soared 14.72% during intraday trading on Thursday, propelled by the release of its first-quarter financial results that significantly exceeded analyst expectations.
The automotive parts retailer reported adjusted earnings per share of $0.77 for the quarter, a dramatic swing from a loss of $0.22 per share a year earlier and far surpassing the consensus analyst estimate of approximately $0.45. Revenue reached $2.61 billion, edging above the expected $2.58 billion. The company also posted comparable store sales growth of 3.5%, driven by strength in both its professional (Pro) and do-it-yourself (DIY) business segments, and an expansion in gross margin to 45.1%.
Advance Auto Parts reaffirmed its full-year 2026 guidance, expecting net sales between $8.49 billion and $8.58 billion and adjusted diluted EPS in the range of $2.40 to $3.10. The strong quarterly performance, marked by a return to profitability and robust sales growth, has fueled significant investor optimism regarding the company's ongoing strategic initiatives and financial turnaround.